This blog started off by focussing on NZ's smaller 3rd level airlines, past and present. It has evolved to trying to present some record of NZ's domestic airline operations and some of the larger charter operators, interesting NZ international airliner movements and photos I have taken around the country. Comments, corrections or contributions are welcome, Steve - westland831@gmail.com

29 April 2015

Air New Zealand last flights and their replacements

Yesterday, 28 April 2015, Air New Zealand withdrew from Whakatane, Kaitaia and Westport as well as the Taupo-Wellington route.

Beech 1900 ZK-EAE operated the final flight from Whakatane to Auckland (EAG532) and the final return flight from Auckland to Kaitaia (EAG602 and EAG603). Air Chathams Convair 580 operated the first flight to Whakatane (CVA580). Great Barrier Airlines have yet to start their service to Kaitaia.

Beech 1900 ZK-EAI operated the final Taupo-Wellington service (EAG501). Sounds Air are now moving towards picking up this route.

Beech 1900 ZK-EAN operted the final return flight from Wellington to Westport (EAG587/EAG588) under the command of Captain Andrew Mercer and First Officer Jason McDonald. In the afternoon Sounds Air Pilatus PC12 flew the first return service from Westport to Wellington (SDA988/SDA989) under the command of Willie Sage and Naama Gueta.